Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup
A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.
But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.
His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.
But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.
Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
International Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
